Litigators in the Isle of Man take note: the Rules of the High Court of Justice (Amendment) (No. 2) 2024 came into effect on 1 December 2024. These amendments, which alter Part 14
of the Rules of the High Court of Justice 2009, introduce significant
changes to time limits for appeals that could easily catch practitioners
unaware.
Key Changes
- Interim Orders: Time for filing an appeal has increased from 14 days to 21 days.
- Final Orders: Time for filing an appeal has been reduced from 42 days to 21 days.
- Privy Council Appeals: Appeals to the Privy Council must be filed within 21 days of the decision of the Appeal Division being handed down.
Limited Publicity and Transitional Provisions
The rules were made on 7 November 2024 and have received limited fanfare. The transitional provisions state that the amendments do not apply to appeal notices filed with the Appeal Division prior to 1 December 2024.
This does not help a party who thought they had 42 days to appeal a
Final Judgment handed down before 1 December but who has not filed a
notice of appeal.
Anyone considering an appeal from a final judgment handed down before 1 December 2024 must act swiftly. Appeals must now be filed within 21 days of the judgment, and a failure to act promptly could result in the need to apply for leave to appeal out of time.
Practical Advice
- Review Decisions Urgently: If you have a client
considering an appeal from a recent final judgment, immediate action is
required to avoid missing the deadline. - Advise Clients: Ensure clients are fully aware of the reduced time limits for final order appeals.
- Apply for leave to appeal late if required: Where appropriate, prepare an application for leave to appeal late.
Contact Richard Halsall or any of our litigation team if you need assistance